THOUSANDS of pounds are going to be spent on new facilities at an award-winning country park in Worcester.

A new children’s play area will be developed as part of the plans to improve facilities at the Countryside Centre next to County Hall.

The centre, which attracts half a million visitors a year, has been given £110,000 of funding, from the Department for Children, Schools and Families and Play England.

The work will involve renewing the existing play area at the Green Flag winning site, and extending it along the side of the events field next to Orchard Cafe.

Various play sculptures will also be installed around the picnic area and woodland trail.

The public are being asked to comment on the plans in order to ensure the area becomes something unique and special.

The new play equipment will use materials such as logs, boulders and earth mounds to make it more of a natural adventure.

Councillor Derek Prodger, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for transport and safe environment, said: “We are delighted to have secured this significant funding to help us develop one of our most popular country sites.

“I hope that residents take the opportunity to help shape the new plans, which will not only give people a sense of ownership, but also ensure we provide a high quality facility for all the family, for many years to come.”

Guy Ward, owner of the Orchard Cafe, said he was thrilled with the plans.

“The play area really does need a revamp and it is fantastic news for the area,”he said.

“It is going to be made from natural wood and materials and I’m sure it will look great.

“There are two phases for the play area, with the second being a space for more grown-up children to use. It is really going enhance the countryside centre.

“I have spoken to a lot of parents about this and the feedback from them has been great as they can see the designs for the park here and are very excited about it.”

Information displays will be on show at the Countryside Centre until Monday, November 30, with comment cards available for people to have their say.